If punished, the 22-year-old is most likely to be given a 10-place grid penalty at Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix, although he could have his points from the Japanese race wiped out.

The evidence is believed to be footage from video website YouTube, which was filmed from the grandstands at Fuji.

It appears to show Hamilton decelerating dramatically on the right of the track, forcing Webber to slow down and catch Vettel unaware.

Webber said: "It definitely contributed to Sebastian hitting me up the back because (Hamilton) wasn't doing what he was supposed to be doing, clearly."

F1 regulations state the leader must keep a within five metres of the safety car, while erratic driving can also be punished.

Hamilton's driving behind the safety car is in questionIt is thought Hamilton has already met a three-man panel of stewards, who are believed to be deliberating on what action to take over the incident.

An FIA official said: "We understand the stewards of the meeting have received new evidence and are looking into the relevant matter.

Hamilton, who won the grand prix has a 12-point lead over teammate and current champion Fernando Alonso.

The 22-year-old stands to become the youngest driver and the first black driver to win the title if he can better Alonso's finish in next Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.

Last month, Hamilton's team McLaren were kicked out of the F1 constructors' championship and fined £50m for spying on rivals Ferrari.